Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav has found himself at the center of a political controversy after questioning the traditional Diwali practice of lighting lamps and candles. Ahead of the festival, Yadav suggested that India should emulate the extended, modern light displays seen during Christmas celebrations globally, implying it would be a more cost-effective and visually appealing approach.
These statements have been met with immediate and fierce criticism from BJP leaders, who view them as an affront to Indian culture and religious heritage. They accuse Yadav of undermining the significance of Diwali and promoting Western practices.
During a public event, Yadav reportedly commented on the expenses associated with Diwali lights, asking, “Why do we have to spend money on lamps and candles and put so much thought into it?” He also added, “We will make sure that there are more beautiful lights,” suggesting a move away from traditional diyas.
BJP spokesperson Vinod Bansal strongly condemned Yadav’s remarks, interpreting them as an endorsement of Christmas over Diwali. Bansal posted on X, criticizing Yadav for advising Hindus against spending on diyas and instead suggesting they learn from Christmas illuminations. He accused Yadav of favoring foreign customs and disrespecting the ancient traditions of Hinduism, questioning why Hindu society should seek guidance from Christian practices when Diwali has a long historical lineage.
Bansal further alleged that leaders like Yadav have fostered an environment where illegal religious conversions thrive, even accusing them of filling their cabinets with individuals involved in criminal activities. He suggested that Yadav’s criticism stems from a disturbance caused by the festive atmosphere in Ayodhya, contrasting his eagerness for Christmas with his apparent displeasure towards Diwali preparations.
Madhya Pradesh minister Vishwas Sarang joined the fray, questioning Yadav’s suitability to comment on Hindu traditions and suggesting names like ‘Antony’ or ‘Akbar’ might be more fitting. Sarang also raised concerns about the Yadav family’s alleged past actions against Ram devotees and proposed an inquiry into their religious beliefs. He emphasized that Yadav’s comments were an insult to the Prajapati community, whose livelihoods depend on crafting the diyas used during Diwali, highlighting the socio-economic implications of Yadav’s remarks.